ORANGE COUNTY, N.Y. (Jan. 24, 2023) – Winter weather has been a little late in coming this year, but now that chillier days are on the way, find your winter adventure in Orange County, N.Y. Whether it’s skiing, skating, snowboarding – or simply strolling among outdoor artworks in the invigorating air – the county offers winter the way you want it when the temperatures drop.
Slopes from gentle beginner runs to expert black-diamond courses offer challenges for skiers, snowboarders and snow tubers of all levels. Cross-country skiers can travel scenic trails, skaters can take to the ice and ice fishers can drop their lines into the water beneath the frozen layers.
“Orange County, N.Y., offers exhilarating winter fun and adventure for everyone!” said Amanda Dana, Director of Orange County Tourism & Film. “It’s the perfect place for skiing just an hour north of New York City, for expert skiers and those trying their first day on the slopes. It’s also ideal for snow tubers, snowmobilers, snowboarders, skaters and those who enjoy ice fishing. Plan a stay at one of our fabulous B&Bs or other accommodations for a weekend filled with adventures, each one more fun than the last.”
Be sure to check in with the venue you plan to visit to confirm that the conditions are right for the activity of your choice.
The following are just some Orange County locations for winter fun:
SKIING, SNOW BOARDING, SNOW TUBING
Mount Peter, 51 Old Mount Peter Road, Warwick: New York’s Family Mountain is open for skiers, riders and snow tubers, with an expanded and redesigned area for ski lessons. A year ago, the mountain implemented a system for buying tickets online in advance and reserving a date. Winter outdoor enthusiasts of all levels are welcome. Mount Peter’s famous FREE beginner lessons are offered on weekends and holidays to introduce newcomers to the sport. Mount Peter also offers private and family lessons, including mid-week learn-to-ski and snowboard packages.
Victor Constant Ski Area at West Point, 732 Victor Constant Road, West Point: The public is welcome to this ski area, which is part of the United States Military Academy at West Point. Novices can ski down the 650-foot bunny hill (green circle run). Blue square and black diamond runs, plus a race hill, challenge those with more experience.
https://westpoint.armymwr.com/programs/victor-constant-ski-area
ICE SKATING
Middletown Ice Skating Rink, 1-31 Union Street: Try the newest outdoor ice skating venue in the county, the City of Middletown’s rink in Erie Way Park. It opened last November.
https://www.facebook.com/MiddletownNYRecreationandParksDepartment
Crane Park, Highway 17M, Monroe: Ice skating permitted in designated areas. (Look for the green flag that signifies the ice is thick enough.) Bring your own skates.
https://www.villageofmonroe.org/services/parks-recreation/
Winding Hills Park, Route 17K, Montgomery: Ice fishing is permitted during daylight, when there is sufficient ice. Snowmobiling is permitted during daylight with sufficient snow cover. (Register at the ranger’s office.) Trails are also open for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
https://www.orangecountygov.com/1491/Winding-Hills-Park
STROLLING
Storm King Art Center, 1 Museum Rd. New Windsor: The 500-acre outdoor showcase of modern and contemporary sculptures opens Jan. 14 for winter weekends. The sculptures stand out more boldly against a blanket of white or a starker landscape. Winter hours are Saturdays and Sundays 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Member Mornings are at 9 a.m. Sundays.) Depending on conditions, some sections may be closed or inaccessible for safety reasons. Some sculptures may be winterized, moved or removed for conservation.
About Orange County Tourism & Film
Orange County Tourism & Film, based in Goshen, N.Y., is the county’s tourism and film production headquarters and a participant in the I LOVE NY program. A comprehensive listing of area attractions, lodging, events and film resources can be found at www.OrangeTourism.org. Additionally, a fun, free, 56-page travel guide is available for digital download at orangetourism.org/travel-guide/.
